India's premium leather industry set to showcase global strength at Fashion Show 2026 and Industry Symposium

January 29, 2026

Chennai

The Indian Finished Leather Manufacturers and Exporters Association (IFLMEA) announced its Leather Fashion Show which will be held on February 1, 2026.

This event will holds a spotlight on India's expanding leather goods industry and foster critical partnerships between manufacturers and retailers across the nation.

Mr. Ateequr Rahman, Chairman IFLMEA said, "The Fashion Show focuses the leather industry's attention on the latest expressions of styles and designs in the world of leather fashion It provides a critical platform for global brands and international buying houses to witness the exceptional quality and innovative designs emerging from India's leather sector. These interactions directly translate into business opportunities and dialogue with global customers, reinforcing India's position in the international fashion landscape."

This time, a Brand Symposium will also be conducted on 2 February, 2026 as an extended part of the Show.

The Fashion show - showcasing Industry Strength

India is progressively establishing itself as a significant consumer market for leather fashion goods. While global fashion trends traditionally emanate from fashion capitals such as Paris, Milan, London, New York, and Los Angeles, India's evolving consumer base presents unique opportunities for localized adaptations and innovation.

The Leather Fashion show also caters to the reality that it is difficult to be able to attend such shows across the world. By reflecting the current and upcoming trends in the markets - both Indian and internationally - this Show plays, and has been for many years, a critical role for the industry in India.

Mr. K.R Vijayan, Convenor Fashion Show and Symposium 26 said, "The 2026 Fashion Show will feature over 14 major leather product producers from across India, demonstrating the industry's exceptional capabilities in both ovine and bovine leather categories.Participants will display an extensive range of products including premium footwear, designer leather garments, luxury handbags, and exclusive leather accessories. The show will feature 14 showstoppers and over 70 models, directed by Bhaskaran Chandra Sekhar and choreographed by Jude Felix."

Leather apparel, particularly seasonally appropriate designs for autumn and winter months, shows strong potential as consumer preferences evolve toward premium, natural materials. Leather footwear continues to gain traction for its natural qualities, providing superior comfort and health benefits to consumers.

Among the key supporters of the Fashion Show are Kothari Industrial Corporation Ltd. (Platinum), Saba Group (Gold) and Micropak (Silver).

The Brand Symposium

Scheduled for 2 February, 2026, it will serve as a targeted meeting ground between leather manufacturing brands and retailers from Tier 1 and 2 cities across India to forge partnerships, share consumer insights, and discuss market trends.

The Symposium will emphasize dialogue among specialists through roundtables and talks that serve to help the industry explore possibilities. It is going to be well placed to address the rapidly changing Indian consumer landscape and facilitates meaningful dialogue between key stakeholders.

Mr. Yavar Dhala, Co Convenor Brand Symposium 2026, said, "Retailers will provide manufacturers with invaluable feedback regarding consumer expectations and market dynamics, while brands educate retailers and end consumers about product features and quality standards. This collaborative approach ensures that premium leather products reach discerning Indian consumers through optimized distribution channels."

Positive Industry Outlook

The leather goods industry is experiencing recovery following a challenging period. IFLMEA projects robust growth prospects ahead, with combined local and export trade expected to achieve 15% year-on-year growth. Looking forward, industry forecasts remain decidedly positive, with anticipated growth of 15-20% over the next three years.

"IFLMEA's global reach and facilitating role—fostering interaction between the tanning industry and government for favorable policies, promoting technology collaborations internationally, and encouraging financial partnerships across borders—positions us to capitalize on these growth opportunities," Mr. Ateequr Rahman, Chairman IFLMEA, added.

In his vote of thanks, Mr. Mohammed Jahan, Honorary Secretary-IFLMEA expressed his gratitude to the sponsors of the IILF and the Leather Fashion Show and hoped that this edition of the Fair and the Fashion Show would be the most successful ones to date.

Event details

Leather Fashion show

Date: 1 Feb '26

Venue: ITC Grand Chola

Time: 8.00pm

Brand Symposium

Date: 2 Feb '26

Venue: ITC Grand Chola

Time: 10.30am to 5.00pm